Management and users make important decisions based on system outputs. Outputs present information to system users. Outputs, the most visible component of a working information system, are the justification for the system. These outputs are produced from data that is either retrieved from databases or, more often, input by users.

Good input and output design can make the difference in whether or not an information system is used effectively. User interface design provides a roadmap or dialog that integrates the inputs and outputs.

In this milestone you will design outputs, inputs, and user interface for the Customer Response System.

Objectives

After completing this milestone, you should be able to:

Design a GUI output screen and printed computer outputs.

Design a GUI input screens that use the proper screen-based controls.

Design a GUI screen that integrates the above outputs and inputs.

Prerequisites

Before starting this milestone the following topics should be covered:

Output design – Chapter 15

Input design – Chapter 16

User interface design – Chapter 17

Assignment

The goal of this project is to design outputs, inputs, and a user interface to track employee data.

Activities

Design at least one of the following outputs for the Equipment Check-Out System: transaction (external/turnaround), detail report (internal), summary report (internal), and exception report (internal). Your instructor will indicate what specific outputs you are to design.

Design at least one of the following inputs for the Equipment Check-Out System: source document, client/server screens (e.g., Windows), and web screens. Your instructor will indicate what specific inputs you are to design.

Design a user interface that integrates the above outputs and inputs. [Note: this requirement is for the main system screen and all subsequent screens that may be used to arrive at the screens designed for Activity 1 and 2.]

Your instructor may indicate what specific design tool you should use. Your instructor will specify deliverable format and software to be used. Deliverables should be neatly packaged in a binder, separated with a tab divider labeled “Milestone 5-Part III” and accompanied with a Milestone Evaluation Sheet.

References:

Previous narratives and supplied forms

Optional

Guidelines or additional technical requirements such as data dictionary.